The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Toyota unveils new Yaris with more tech and a hybrid option
Toyota has unveiled its next-generation Yaris ahead of its arrival in the UK during the middle part of 2020.
Coming as the firm’s bestselling European model, the Yaris has been given a ground-up redesign to incorporate more technology and a new three-cylinder hybrid powertrain.
Most of the car’s controls will be found on its 10-inch central touchscreen.
Along with the five-inch TFT display in the instrument binnacle you can also have a 10-inch head-up display, which projects information, such as your speed and satnav directions, on to the windscreen.
All models come with active cruise control and lane-trace assist – meaning the new Yaris will be able to brake, accelerate and steer itself on the motorway.
It will also be the first car in the UK to come fitted with a centre airbag, designed to stop front-seat passengers from crushing each other in the event of a collision.
Due to be built at Toyota’s Valenciennes plant in France, this Yaris sits on an all-new platform that aims to improve interior space without sacrificing the compact proportions which attract buyers to the car.
Despite being 50mm wider and having a wheelbase 50mm longer than before, it’s actually shorter by 5mm than the car it replaces.
The Yaris will be available with one of three petrol engines, all three-cylinder units. An entry-level 1.0-litre unit will kick things off, and will come with just a five-speed manual gearbox.
A larger 1.5-litre engine will be available with a six-speed manual or CVT automatic option.
Finally, there’s a 1.5-litre hybrid, which combines the petrol engine with a 79bhp electric motor.
Toyota claims that the powertrain is 15% more powerful than the one it replaces, yet produces around 20% less CO2.
Full economy figures and pricing have yet to be released, though Toyota has revealed that the Yaris Hybrid can travel at speeds of up to 80mph in all-electric mode.